Gavin Newsom addresses UC math proficiency and testing debate

standardized testing SAT admissions math proficiency crisis University of California Gavin Newsom

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declined to take a stance on the debate regarding standardized testing for University of California admissions. During a press conference in Hayward, Newsom requested more data to address concerns raised by over 1,200 UC professors, including Nobel laureates, who have warned of a severe crisis in student math proficiency.

Professors report that many incoming freshmen lack basic mathematical skills, such as working with fractions, which forces educators to simplify advanced courses like Calculus. Critics suggest that the 2020 decision to eliminate SAT and ACT requirements has contributed to the issue and encouraged grade inflation.

A report from the UC San Diego Senate-Administration Working Group highlighted a significant trend, noting that the number of incoming freshmen with math skills below the high school level rose from 30 in 2020 to 900 projected for 2025. The University of California Board of Regents is expected to review testing options next year.